#are we all exited for more sk8?

[marmeow]

langa sc redraw :3

i made him unintentionally vv fluffy but that’s ok bc my favourite person was vv fluffy :))

pls click/tap image for much better quality!!

[d33rbutch]

Let’s talk about the neurodivergent coding in Sk8 the Infinity

First off:

EVERYONES EXPERIENCE WITH NEURODIVERSITY IS DIFFERENT

i personally have been diagnosed with ADHD and i plan to get screened for autism

All of the information about these disorders come from my own experience and the experiences of people I know, so please take it all at face value

Also Sk8 spoilers, obviously

ADHD coding in Kyan Reki

Reki tends to show the more hyperactive side of ADHD

He often shows that he has a lot of energy and it is quite apparent that he hyperfixates on skateboarding and more specifically on making skateboards.

We get the information that Reki has joined and left a skating gang before he really became acquainted with S. He left this gang because he felt that the others in the gang did not share his true passion and love for skating. It shows that even when in a group that supposedly has th same collective interest as Reki, that he still likes it much more than the others.

In the first episode we see Reki trying to talk about skating with some of his peers, but they just turn away. Reki’s reaction does remind me of when people are trying to talk about their special interests and get shut down. You can see that he was very exited that someone took an interest in what he was doing and was exited to talk about it.

This isn’t just shown here though! Reki has a theme of getting seriously passionate when he talks about skating or making skateboards. In episode 2, after he had Langa were watching skating videos and Langa was staring to talk about how amazing skateboarding is Reki stated feeling a sense of companionship over shared interests (this scene is literally so cute)

I really see my own symptoms in Reki around episode 7 when he starts realizing that he and Langa were “not a good match anymore” (completely heart shattering by the way, ouch)

I find that I relate to how Reki could jut be proud of Langa for so long until someone else had to make a big deal out of it. To me it seems that Reki mood takes a large swing at this time that reveals a few symptoms of what could easily be some underlying depression. He continues to hav thesemood swings later on, where he cant help but be proud of Langa because he thought him to skate in the first place, but it also hurts that Langa could be leaving him behind.

When Reki and Langa make up, it is a lot of Langa reassuring Reki that he still skates because it is fun and he is passionate about it. I believe this helps Reki forgive him because deep down he was afraid that Langa was losing passion as he got better just like Miya did.

Speaking of Miya, Reki’s reckless decision making doesn’t show up often, but when he stood up for Miya by going into a beef without Adam (with the prize being Langa???!!?) is a key example. He refused to back down despite everyone telling him that he should. Even Miya repeatedly asked Reki to back out but he did not.

Also: The wiki describes him as scatterbrained?!?

Autism coding in Hasegawa Langa

In my opinion, the ASD (autism spectrum disorder) coding in Langa is more prominent than the ADHD coding in Reki, though possibly harder to recognize.

In episode 11, while Reki and Langa are looking at the broken skateboard, Langa crouches down, as that is the way he feels more comfortable discussing how he feels. I took this as Langa trying to make himself smaller because the information he was about to share felt overwhelming.

With this scene you can see how Reki crouched down with Langa instead of trying to get Langa to stand. It is obvious that the ADHD and autism friendship dynamic works well for them. (its cute as hell too. look at them, caring for each other.)

Like with ADHD, one of the symptoms of autism is reckless decision making, which is quite repetitive for Langa throughout the series. He chooses to beef with Adam (more than once) despite knowing that it is dangerous. He preforms risky tricks and maneuvers, even though everyone warned him against it. He does not usually think about his own safety while skating.

Also, like ADHD, ASD can cause fixations, commonly known as special interests. We know that Langa has always loved snowboarding (ever since he was two) and that he stopped when his father died. when he comes to Japan and starts skateboarding he starts to fixate on it like he fixated n skateboarding before. He gets to have the same sensation and passion without all the painful memories.

This one is lesser, but I think that Langa’s (kinda terrible) handwriting could be showing a sort of learning disability?

In the later episodes, where Reki is sad and feels like he is getting left behind, Langa has trouble understanding what is wrong. It is really hard for him to process Reki’s emotions.

Langa continuously shows examples of not being good with people and not wanting to be. His stats on the wiki tell us that he is bad with communicating, as well as being very reticent.

ADHD Reki and ASD Langa fic recs

Here are my very favorite fanfictions with ADHD Reki and ASD Langa

Your Name on Repeat by ImPanDuh Ao3

In which Langa has echolalia with Reki’s name (so cute guys i cant take it)

One of Those Days by ImPanDuh Ao3

In which Langa is having a bad day so Reki comes to comfort him (I’ve been thinking about this one nonstop for days)

I Will Always Be There For You by DazzalingDazai Ao3

In which Langa has a sensory overload and Reki is there to comfort him (they are so in love)

Catching Butterflies by carboncerulean Ao3

In which Reki has not had a lot of friends and is falling in love with Langa (my heart!)

The Sleepover by xworldofartemisx Ao3

In which Langa sleeps over and Reki is so in love (it’s so sweet i swear)

I Fell For You (Boy You’re So Screwed) by yuki (kinnienextdoor) Ao3

Renga arcade date (they are so cute)

If i ever write a Renga fic it will have ADHD Reki and ASD Langa :)

[noirlevity]

Scent Chapter 4

Pairing: TadaAi

Fandom: Sk8 the Infinity

Synopsis: Ainosuke once loved Tadashi, but ever since he broke his heart, he decided to never have anything to do with him. But what happens if he meets him again after so many years and finds out a secret that will change both of their lives forever?

Chapter summary: Ainosuke reunites with the ghost in his past.

Tags: Omegaverse, forced bonding, forced marriage, sorta angst, slow burn

Read: AO3 || 1 2 3

The wail of the engine blares as the plane prepares to touch down. Droves of people line to exit the plane. Ainosuke jostles through the crowd as he makes his way to the bus. The vanilla sky and the cold morning air greeted him as he walked.

He’s finally back in Okinawa. 

Inside the building, there were only a few people. Ainosuke waits for his luggage on the revolving platform. When he finally sees it, he grabs it and leaves. He reaches the exit and sees three familiar middle-aged women. Looking at them, Ainosuke quietly rates how bland their styles were. Ainosuke wore his custom-made navy suit with his newly bought oxfords. He was probably overdressed, but he needed to look smart and presentable for this reunion.

Ainosuke takes off his gucci shades and smiles pleasantly at his Aunts. He gives his luggage to the chauffeur.

“I’m back, Aunties.”

“Welcome back Ainosuke.”

His Aunts kisses and hugs him. Ainosuke only smiles to drive the awkwardness away. He isn't particularly pleased with being with them again.

“We missed you very much. You resemble your father now.”

"So handsome and smart looking. Truly the embodiment of how a Shindo heir should be. We're so proud of you."

Ainosuke wants to curl his lips in disgust but he stops himself. 

“When was the last time you went home again? Ah, if I remember correctly it was Aiichiro’s funeral 2 years ago.”

“Yes, it was Auntie."

Ainosuke looks away as his Aunt Sayuri chatters. Memories of his Father’s funeral flash in his mind. He remembers a familiar face leading the ceremony with solemn, empty eyes. He sat quietly at a corner as guests paid their respects. Tadashi looked so worn out then, pale. His youthful glow was no longer there. The dark circles underneath his eyes made him look like a stranger. Staring at the distance as his Aunts conversed with visitors, Tadashi's thin face and hunched figure painted a pitiful man. He looked so different from how he looked years ago when he last saw him.

Even though they had their issue, Ainosuke wanted to go to him to greet him, but he couldn’t. He wasn’t able to bring himself to. The sweet smell that used to make him happy made him feel sad. Ainosuke believes that the feelings he once harbored for Tadashi have long thawed. Yet bitterness still remained. At that time, he realized that Tadashi’s betrayal was something he couldn’t forgive. Ever. Later when he asked his Aunt Kaguya about why Tadashi was leading the ceremony, he found out that Tadashi had been working for his Father. She said that Tadashi was hired a year after Ainosuke left for the states. At that time, he didn’t pay attention to such information because he told himself he was not going to think about him and make himself miserable. 

“Ah yes, Ainosuke. Remember Tadashi? Since he is your Dad’s secretary, and he’s capable and hardworking, we decided to make him your secretary. You don’t need to worry, he can be trusted and we can vouch for his competence."

“Are there any other options?” Ainosuke asks, adamant that he didn’t want Tadashi to be his secretary.

“Tadashi is really capable. He is almost like an alpha in that regard.”

“But..”

“Ainosuke.”

“Ah, I understand. Tadashi it is “ Ainosuke smiles. He looks around to search for the man in question. Noticing that Ainosuke was searching for someone, his Aunt Sayuri spoke, “Tadashi is not here, he was finishing some preparations for the family so he could not accompany us today.”

“He insisted though, but we thought it would be better for us 4 to spend some quality time together. It’s been such a long time since we bonded. We couldn’t visit you in America all the time.”

Hearing his aunts talk makes him uncomfortable. Inside the car, Ainosuke is quiet. He only responds and smiles when he is asked a question. His thoughts linger on the thought that Tadashi is going to be his secretary. 

He didn’t like it. 

He didn’t want it to be him.

However, he couldn’t be stubborn about it. After all, he was voiceless in the Shindo household even though he was the heir. His aunts seem fond of Tadashi despite him being a beta. He assumed that was his gender considering he was hired. His family only hired either alphas or betas. For sure, he was a beta with how his Aunt Sayuri and Kaguya talked about him. 

While Ainosuke was in America, he didn’t hear any news about Tadashi. His Aunts never mentioned him as well. That was why when he learned he worked for his father he was irritated. He remembers the picture one of the maids mistakenly included in his luggage and how through the years he tried getting rid of it but he could never bring himself to. It was the only picture he had of both of them together since he burned the others. He might have to try getting rid of it once more.

His Aunt Chieko takes a call and announces that the restaurant they booked for Ainosuke’s return was ready.  As they ate, Ainosuke’s Aunts didn't hesitate to talk about marriage and for Ainosuke to meet people with that in mind. Ainosuke already had his fair share of relationships but it always ends abruptly. Well, except for one, but that too had to end. He was sure it would be the same this time as well. Maybe shallow relationships were what suited him. Knowing how persistent his Aunts were, he pretended he was interested in the thought of marriage. 

They drive home. As he stares outside of the car window, he notices that they were driving past the streets he traveled when he tried visiting Tadashi once. When they finally turned to the corner that leads straight to their mansion, Ainosuke felt overwhelmed. Earlier, it didn’t sink in that he was finally home but now it did. The mansion was unchanged.  Sure it looked grand and expensive, but that was all there was to it. 

Ainosuke sees Takahisa, the senior butler, and greets him. Takahisa, the old butler who took care of him, looked older. Despite his age, he still looked smart and handsome. A younger butler bows and takes care of his luggage. Ainosuke didn’t know him. As they enter the hallway entrance, another butler was instructing the maids and the other staff to line up for their introduction. The staff lined up face to face like they were in a military inspection. His eyes roam around. Beads of sweat glisten on his forehead as he continues to search. A single drop sluices down his chin so he takes out his handkerchief and wipes it off. Ainosuke taps his feet irritably. He presses his thumb against his index finger and inhales as his Aunts introduce the staff one by one.

Looking at the faces in front of him, he tries to search for faces he was familiar with. He notices that some of the maids were new. It seems that more staff were hired since he was last home. He mentally takes notes of the changes he noticed. 

It always starts with a faint, dull kind of aroma; a pinprick scent tickling his nose. A nanosecond was enough for Ainosuke to find himself back to square one as if 8 long years was still not enough for him to make a single step forward. The sweet scent becomes heavier and he feels like he is still 16. His throat feels like sandpaper; his hands colder than winter.

How funny it all was. 

The scent that always made him feel warm and happy now made him remember the hollowness of the word love. 

Ainosuke hasn’t forgotten anything. Even though he wanted to, the memories were still there in his heart and now like opening pandora's box, everything turned into chaos inside of him. His stomach feels like a whirlpool. Memories and the feelings that came with it that he didn’t want to remember harassed him: Tadashi’s smiling face that always made him feel soft inside; his bubbly laughter and the way he used to hold him in his arms. Ainosuke freezes. Sweat glistens on his high forehead. It’s really been a long time since they’ve seen each other. Eight years was too long a time for a reunion. Time manages to make some feelings go away, but it seems the feelings that he tried so hard to bury are not one of those feelings time can extinguish. 

Ainosuke anticipated this meeting. He even prepared himself before he left, but the real raw sensation Tadashi’s scent gave him was different from what he expected. He always thought that it had the same scent as roses, but it did not. It was similar but different at the same time. The dissatisfaction that always enveloped him recedes. As he basks in the sweet scent, he feels complete. He feels like he has truly come home. 

“Tadashi, you’re back. How were the preparations?”

“It’s almost complete madam.”

“Ainosuke?” His Aunt Kaguya tries to get his attention. 

Ainosuke stiffens. He forces himself to smile when he turns around. 

“Tadashi is here. He’s going to take it from here. Everything is going smoothly for your introduction to society next month.”

Tadashi bends to greet him. Ainosuke just stares, his heart beating gravely in his chest. The anger, pain, and longing he felt all those years twisted in his stomach so much he wants to vomit. 

“Welcome back Ainosuke-sama.”

“Well then, we’ll excuse ourselves.”

The Aunts left, leaving Ainosuke standing there as if he had just seen a ghost. He stares and stares as if embedding Tadashi's image in his mind. The real thing was right in front of him now. He takes a deep breath as his heart constricts and his lips feel dry. He takes a step forward. 

Don't. Stop. Don't you dare take another step. He reprimands himself. 

Tadashi looks up and gives him a faint smile. He finishes the introduction and guides Ainosuke to the garden. They walk side by side. Tadashi’s silence appears cold; distant. The apathy hurts Ainosuke more than he can admit to himself. After 8 long years, Tadashi still has nothing to say to him. To shrug off unnecessary feelings, Ainosuke clears his throat and rotates his shoulders.

The sweet smell is distracting. It was unbearable. Ainosuke used to crave it, but now, he is overwhelmed. It was not helping that Tadashi was close. Unable to withstand it any longer, he wrinkles his nose and stops walking.

Tadashi walks back and looks up at him. Ainosuke sniffs and furrows his brows. He takes a step back and looks away. 

“Pollen allergy?” Tadashi takes something out of his suit hands him a face mask.

“Change your perfume. It’s too strong.” Ainosuke complains, still looking away; his mouth in a pout.

Since Ainosuke didn’t take the face mask, Tadashi mumbles an “excuse me”. He hangs the face mask string on Ainosuke ears, and gently says “But I don’t wear any.”

The soft brush of skin against Ainosuke’s ear flusters him. Out of embarrassment, Ainosuke glares but finds himself cornered at how close Tadashi’s face was to him. He could feel the warmth of the older man’s breath. Truthfully it is giving him gooseflesh. When they ended up meeting eyes, Tadashi was the first to look away. Ainosuke’s mouth quivers. He swallows a lump in his throat and clenches his hand into a fist. 

“So you're still sensitive to smells.”

As the words left Tadashi’s mouth, Ainosuke feels like he is put on the spot. He was often told he was sensitive to smells, when the one saying it is Tadashi it feels as if he was being judged. He tried to grab him. By the time he reached out, Tadashi already wheeled around and walked to the garden. Ainosuke hates himself for being caught in the flow. 

Like what the maids and butlers did, the gardeners lined up and were introduced one by one. As they introduced themselves, Ainosuke realized that Tadashi’s Father was nowhere to be found. After the introductions, they walked back to the mansion. 

“Your father is no longer working here?”

“He got sick when you went to the states so the master replaced him.”

Ainosuke falls quiet. So his father got sick. It’s a pity. 

“What does he do now?”

Tadashi was hesitant. 

“The Master gifted him a botanical garden for his work over the years. He also helps my mom with the flower shop.”

The response makes Ainosuke raise an eyebrow. He finds it odd that his father gifted someone something as expensive as a botanical garden. He's never heard anything about his Father going out of his way for a friend. Did he like Tadashi’s father that much? Ainosuke wasn't sure. He was not knowledgeable when it came to his Father’s acquaintances outside of politics. This thought made Ainosuke realize how estranged he is both mentally and emotionally from his father. As he stares at Tadashi, he couldn’t help but feel at a loss. 

“My old man gifted him a garden? Wow.” Ainosuke scoffs. “How kind of him.”

Both of them enter his Father’s office. Tadashi explains that it is going to be Ainosuke’s office. Ainosuke is familiar with the room. Sometimes this was where his father punishes him. He looks around the room and walks towards the shelves. Ainosuke ran his fingers through the spine of the books. 

“Ainosuke-sama, the master, donated some books to libraries so some of these books are new.” Ainosuke found the book that he used to ask Tadashi to read to him when he was little. 

He read the title with his eyes, 

The little prince.

"Of course I’ll hurt you. Of course, you’ll hurt me. Of course we will hurt each other. But this is the very condition of existence. To become spring means accepting the risk of winter. To become presence means accepting the risk of absence.”

Tadashi turns to him. 

Ainosuke smiles. “I just remembered that from one of Exupery’s letters.” 

Tadashi didn't reply. 

 .

.

.

“The important documents are stored inside this room. The master liked things organized so we tried our best. It isn’t large but important copies of agreement contracts and party documents are here.”

They enter. The room was half the size of a servant's room. It had a single window at the end. Lines of filing cabinets filled the space. Tadashi explains how the files were organized. While he explains the contents of the compartments, Ainosuke can’t stop staring at him. 

He is distracted. 

He couldn't concentrate much on what Tadashi was saying because he got too conscious of their closeness inside the stuffy room. The sweet scent that permeated the air only added to his problems. He thought that if he pushed him down here and now, no one would help Tadashi even if he tried to struggle. But Ainosuke was not that kind of man. Even if he hated Tadashi, he won’t be able to do something that could truly hurt him. He has accepted this fact.

A white fabric peaked out of Tadashi’s suit. Ainosuke reaches out to fix it. When Tadashi backed away and stared at him with a surprised look on his face, only then did he realize what he was about to do.  Ainosuke clears his throat. 

“Since you’re my assistant now, you better look smart and presentable. This won’t do.” Ainosuke fixes the collar. He feels Tadashi stiffen under his touch. He irons Tadashi’s shoulder with his hands

“I can’t believe you were hired. You weren’t even taking a secretarial course in university, weren’t you? Or maybe you did, I just didn’t know.”

After a pause, Tadashi responds, “You’re right sir. I didn’t take anything related to secretarial work in university. Unfortunately, I had to stop my studies. We were having financial difficulties at that time since Father got sick. I had to quit school.”

Ainosuke feels bad at the revelation. He always thought Tadashi had great potential so it was such a waste he wasn’t able to finish school. 

“The master was kind enough to reach out to my Mom and offer me a job. He helped us out a lot with my father’s hospitalization bills and medicines. I’m grateful to him.”

Tadashi’s eyes were solemn when he said that. There was also a hint of sadness when he said he was grateful. With how things turned out, shouldn't he be happy? His father got the help that he needed at a critical time. Furthermore, he was given a stable job.

Aichirou helped them a lot. His Father got his botanical garden. And now they own a flower shop. But why does Tadashi seem so sad? Was it because he missed Aichirou? Was he that important in his life? Ainosuke concludes that he must miss him. After all, he was his benefactor. He was the person who was there for their family when they needed it the most. 

“That’s good.” Ainosuke finally manages to say after he fell silent. While he was having the time of his life in the US, Tadashi was working his ass off. The two of them truly lived such different lives, that was probably why their relationship, albeit only friendship, didn’t work out. 

[vampiremansionpoolboy-moved]

sk8 au week - day 2: royalty and soulmate

reki kyan was nearing his eighteenth birthday and he had yet to meet his soulmate. reki has heard the whispers of the people in the town about people who don’t find their soulmates. it’s not that he didn’t have one -he did, for your information, thank you very much- but because reki was from a royal family, and therefore a prince, he was to be married off and did not have the luxury of being with his soulmate. unless his soulmate was from another royal family, but reki had seen where his red string lead: straight into the center of the town below. so no such luck for another noble as his soulmate.

reki’s mother had tried to let him build friendships and hopefully relationships with the other royal children around his age, but reki had dreams about meeting his soulmate and never developed anything more than friendship with the other royals.

reki stared at his red string, eyes tracing its path down into the village, hoping to catch a glimpse of someone. sometimes when he sleep he caught glimpses of a tall, pale, slender figure and bright blue eyes. reki wondered what those eyes would look like mere inches from his own.

suddenly a book smacked into the back of reki’s head, startling him from his daydream.

“what the fuck-“ reki’s head whipped around.

“hey there slime.” said a voice.

reki groaned at the sight of the boy sitting atop his desk.

“hello miya.” he grumbled.

“what’re you looking at?” the young prince asked, a catlike smirk breaking out on his face.

“nothing,” reki said pushing himself up and walking over to miya.

“so is your mom still making you meet that prince for dinner tonight?” miya hummed as he twirled a pen in his hands.

reki’s mother was much more kind with her son and his romantic predicament, compared to reki’s father who was ready to marry his son off without a meeting between the spouses. but after his father ran away with the sevrant girl he impregnated no one stuck to his old rules.

“yes, but i have a plan to escape and i need your help.” reki said placing his hands on miya’s shoulders.

“i’m all ears,” miya said leaning forward as if reki’s mother was outside the door and eavesdropping this very moment.

“ok so i need you to mix up joe and shadow’s schedules so they’re both in the great hall at the same time. we cant have a fancy dinner set up if the cook and florist are in there at the same time now can we?”

“i like what i’m hearing.”

“and then i need you and koyomi to either distract the stable hand while i sneak through the barn.”

“done. is that all you need?”

“yep. the rest is up to me. joe accidentally let it slip that his soulmate is the craftsman in town and that he sneaks out at the exit behind the greenhouses to meet him. so thanks to joe i’ve got my escape route all planned.”

“well look at this, prince reki ditching the feast planned just for him. who would have thought?” miya asked with a laugh.

“well after how the last dinner ended it’s not that surprising.” reki said with a shudder as he remembered the glazed goat falling onto the poor princess who was just looking for a potential marriage partner.

miya let out snicker at the memory. “well now that you say that...”

“anyways i have to hurry if i wanna make it before my mom sends a servant to make sure i’m ready.”

“oh right right let’s go. i’ll go get koyomi and head to the stables. see you soon.” and with a wink miya slipped out the door and was gone. grabbing a cloak from his bed, reki fastened the clasp and dashed out the room after miya.

he was sick of all this arranged marriage bullshit, he was sick of it all. reki just wanted to meet his soulmate and fall in love. he knew his thoughts were selfish though. he was the eldest of the four kyan children and his mom was doing her best to rule a kingdom by herself, so by default his marriage was bound to be political. it was very unlikely he would end up with his soulmate.

and so that’s why reki was going to meet his soulmate tonight. he would meet them and apologize for being a lousy soulmate before heading back to the castle to meet the prince who he was supposed to be dinning with.

for most of reki’s life he soulmate had lead to a place up in the snowy mountains. but within the past few years the string moved into the town below the castle reki lived in. just like fate his soulmate moved to his home town. but it was someone else’s fate, not his. so reki made up his mind weeks ago: meet his soulmate, apologize, then finally agree to a political marriage. his plan would take away his curiously about his soulmate, it would hopefully lessen his guilt about not being able to be with said soulmate, and it would make his mom happy. so why didn’t he like what he was about to do?

ignoring the heavy feeling in his stomach reki pushed on. running quietly through the halls reki hid behind stone pillars and over large plant pots when he needed too. finally reaching the barn reki slipped into there to see miya and koyomi talking away with the stable hand over a loaf of bread and some pieces of cheese.

slipping past the trio and out into the courtyard beyond reki doesn’t make a noise. he holds his breath all the way to the green house, and doesn’t let it out until he’s well into the tunnel behind it. some time ago a tunnel was dug in the large wall protecting the castle, the entrance was hidden by vines on both sides. the cave was known only to a select few.

as reki hurried through the cave he began to think back to some of his earlier suitors. he remembers his best friend who he could have seen himself marrying despite not being soulmates. but his friend got sick and went back to his kingdom and reki never heard from him again.

but tonight was about his soulmate. so reki trudged on, squinting for the cave opening.

before long the prince was stumbling out of the vines and onto the street. luckily it was mostly empty. empty except for a tall man with long pink hair and glasses.

at the sound of someone falling through the leaves he looked up but seemed shocked to see a teenager.

“your not kojiro.” the stranger blurted.

“and your not- actually i wasn’t waiting for anyone and i have no idea who you are...or who kojiro is.”

the man stared at reki for a minute before recognition flashed in his eyes.

“prince reki! what are you doing outside of the castle?”

“i um...well you see-“ but reki was cut off by a rustling behind the vines and a large figure falling out of said vines.

“kaoru you will never believe the day i had...” joe trailed off, eyes catching sight of a panicked reki and surprised kaoru.

“joe?” reki blurted at the same time joe said “reki?”

the two stared at each other before reki made a run for it.

but joe caught him by his hood so reki didn’t get far.

“kid what the hell are you doing here?” joe said apparently forgetting all formalities one should talk to their prince with.

“not of your business! and i could ask you the same!” reki yelled as he struggled to get free from joe’s grip.

“i’m meeting my soulmate. and i’m going to ask you again, what are you doing here?”

reki sagged, giving up the struggle. “same here,”

“you’re meeting your soulmate?” kaoru asked.

“yes, what about it?” reki said crossing his arms. it had all gone so good until now.

“aren’t you supposed to be in a arranged marriage?”

“yes so i’m going to meet my soulmate and apologize before agreeing to an arranged marriage.”

“what?” joe said, surprise causing him to loosen his grip. taking the chance reki dashed away. ignoring the yells behind him reki kept on running. nothing can stop me now, reki thought, i’ve come this far.

eyeing his string, reki ran through the streets watching it get tighter and tighter. reki was too focused on the string that he didn’t see the boy in front of himself until it was too late.

the boys slammed into each other hard, the medicinal products in the other boy’s hands clattering to the ground.

“oh shit sorry-“

“sorry-“

they both spoke at the same time causing the boys to look up at each other abruptly. the boy had bright blue hair that went down past his ears. he was tall and lanky, his skin almost as pale as snow. bright blue eyes that reki had sworn he had seen before. but when reki’s gaze meet the boy‘s hands, his heart stopped. a thin red string connecting reki’s own finger to this mystery boy’s, hung in the air. a red string of fate; a soulmate string. this boy was his soulmate.

eyes snapping back to the bright blue ones reki knew his soulmate saw it too.

“well shit.” reki blurted and the boy began to laugh. it was a sweet noise, like the chime of heavenly bells. and so reki began to laugh too.

“well i guess you’re my soulmate. that makes this search a lot easier then.” standing up and reaching out a hand to his soulmate, reki began to speak. “so you probably know who i am and therefore i can’t marry you -or be with you quite frankly- and i’m very sorry for that and it’s selfish of me but i have the responsibility of the kingdom on my shoulders and i can’t fail my people.”

“what? ‘kingdom’? what are you talking about?” the boy‘s blank stare bored into reki.

“...i’m the prince. and i’m going to be king someday. and as much i want to be with my soulmate -you-, i have to be responsible for my people -which includes you-.”

realization dawned on his face. “ooh, i see.”

“and honestly i don’t care about the difference of ‘rank’ between noble and townsfolk but other royalty do.”

“well my moms a doctor if that means anything.”

“a prominent roll indeed but unfortunately not enough for the in-law of a prince. well not in my eyes, but in the eyes of others.”

the boy hummed in though. “well she was the queen of the kingdom in the mountains before my father fell to illness and some corrupt politician overthrew her and had us banished. do that mean anything?”

“you- you mean you were a prince?”

the boy nods.

“oh my god. oh my god! this may just work then! i may be able to be with my soulmate and still have a marriage that pleases the royal court!” reki’s eyes light up in happiness. “that’s only if you do want to be with me i mean.” he added.

“well you’re my soulmate, are you not? so we’re meant to be together, no?”

“well yes of course. but i wanted to make sure you were comfortable with it and all...”

“of course reki.” the boy said sweetly while reaching out and clasping reki’s hands in his own.

reki almost melted at the use of his given name spoken by his soulmate.

“oh wait can i call you that? is that ok?”

all reki could do was dumbly nod.

“my names langa by the way.”

“langa,” reki said testing out the way the name felt on his tongue. “i like it!” he smiled and watched as langa’s face turned red.

“well should we head to the castle or something to relay the news?” langa asked, turning to reki.

“hmmm i think we can wait a minute. wanna show me around the town?”

“it would be my honor.”

and so the two boys disappeared into the lively bustle of the town as the laughed away and held each other’s hand like a lifeline.

~ ~ ~

@sk8-au-week

[lively-950]

I didn't say any of the obvious bullshit about episode 9 (sk8) because WOW. What a wild ride. Sure, I took alot of screenshots, but I also can't exit AnimeKisa or it restarts the episode. So here is my panic attack of episode 9.

So, from the beginning we have JOE vs. Langa. Which was a very intense beef, and I honestly didn't expect Langa to win, but if course he did, because plot armour.

And then, ADAM vs Cherry is announced, we all know how that one goes. But my analysis is more on the flashbacks. Adam seems like a genuinely happy person, while I'm sure there's more to it, I just can't bring myself to only see bad in the guy. These flashbacks are also where Love Blossom shippers draw their power from, and after a discussion with my friend about it, I still can't see why people would draw "Adam and Cherry are in love because Adam caught him or whatever". We also get to see how Cherry's perception of Adam shatters as his board collides with his face. Cherry still held a hope that Adam was just acting scary and distant, but in reality, their friendship didn't exist anymore (if it ever really did in the first place).

The post credit scene was a great spawn point for way too many Matcha Blossom fics that I'm burning through at an alarming rate. Also, I find it incredibly unfair how pretty Cherry can look while he's sleeping.

I think I have everything out of my system now.

[rosaceablues]

Convenient pt 2 - a reddie fanfic

(a/n- I am so glad you guys enjoyed this as much as I enjoyed @sparklytoziers original post this is based on, all creative credits to them. As always, feedback is SO appreciated. Enjoy!) 

part one 

After that encounter, Richie Tozier’s life would never be the same. Well, maybe that’s a tad hyperbolic; Rich always had “a flare for the dramatic” as his mother liked to put it. All he knew was that this pretty boy put knots in his stomach- knots he had no intention of resolving any time in the near future, knots he quite frankly would like to reproduce again soon. He reached his apartment 2 cigarettes later, threw his chips on the kitchen counter, and landed on his mattress, ready to contemplate the day’s events as he did every night. Soon enough Richie was far away and fast asleep.  

Since the Derry Community College’s courses for the fall didn’t begin until Tuesday, Richie had resolved to do a whole lot of nothing that fine Monday. However, as he began to brew what he called coffee (the rest of the world would affectionately label it sludge), Rich noticed a neatly folded slip of paper had been passed under his door. In loose cursive were the words “Skate park around the corner. I’ll be there all day. - Bev” This was an offer he could not refuse. Skating was never his forte, but he liked to hang around skaters so this invitation suited him just fine. Due to his late sleep in, he left the apartment at around 2 pm, board in hand and a boy on his mind. 

When he reached the dry pool known as Derry Sk8 Zone, Richie spotted his neighbor on the side, looking as comfortable as ever in the loud, warm, crowded area. Beverly perked up and waved when she saw him approaching but remained seated for him to come to her. She was totally in her element here, that was crystal clear. 

“I’m so glad you could make it!” she called out as he approached her, gesturing for him to sit on the pavement with her. “Figured we could use some neighborly bonding, see if you pass the evaluation for possible friendship. Cigarette?” Beverly offered her pack, but Rich pulled out his own and lit one, happy to not be thrust into the pool to demonstrate his (lack of) skating skills. 

Of course, the two began to talk about the getting to know you basic facts: how many siblings do you have, why are you in Derry, what’s your major, do you like frozen yogurt, the essentials. As the conversation lulled, Richie couldn’t help but to bring up what hadn’t left his mind since the previous night. 

“I met this person. Well, I saw them. Met implies we had some introduction,” he started, then took a drag off his dying smoke. 

“What does she look like? I probably know her. Did you see her here?” 

“Him.” 

This was met with a quiet “Ohhh...” from Bev. 

This was followed with a “No, no I go both ways. Anyway, he works at that 24 hour convenience store and-” he was interrupted by his new friend not being able to hold in raucous laughter, clutching the sides of the pool so she wouldn’t fall in. 

“That BOY is Eddie Kaspbrak and he is the absolute princess of Derry. Listen-” another giggle, “I can help you-” more laughter, then a clearing of the throat as she got a hold of herself once more. “I can help you find another pretty boy because Eddie is the epitome of emotionally unavailable.” 

Richie struggled to counter this point, find a reason he alone could get with Eddie, but he had barely encountered the boy, much less knew about their compatibility. “Has he been hurt before or....is he in the closet.... or-” 

She interrupted again with “He’s just full of himself, so full he can’t let anyone in.” Another long drag from her dying Menthol. “Sounds like someone else I know pretty well.” Richie could only assume she meant another friend of hers but of course she was ragging on herself. Beverly’s 2 biggest vices were there in that moment: cigarettes and self loathing. Coincidentally, the pair sounded like a kick-ass album name. She filed that away for later use, stretching out on the warm pavement that lined the area as Richie reached for his unused board. 

“I think I’m gonna head out. Grab a bite!” This last sentence was said in a Dracula voice, accompanied by a hiss and baring of invisible fangs. It received a small chuckle from the receiving end which Richie counted as a successful land. “Wanna tag along? I sure could use some recommendations for local grubs.” 

Beverly flicked her hair off one shoulder and looked back over the kids and teens diving in and out of the pool, contemplating the offer. “Nah. My one day a week off work, I’d rather not spend it in Dixie Diner. That’s the only sort of restaurant you can get in Derry besides the greasy fast food stuff.” 

“Hey I happen to like greasy fast food stuff!” 

She swatted him away, adding “Get lost, grease-ball!” and sent him off with a kiss blown his way. He caught it and pressed his hand to his cheek, pretending to swoon as he went. 

After a hearty meal at what was sure to be a regular stop for him in Dixie Diner, Richie headed home and resolved to watch movies for the rest of the day. The term film junkie was an understatement: the boy was addicted. His major in college was film itself, because, whether he knew it at the time or not, Richie had always wanted to entertain others and bring joy, as cheesy as it was. Sure he had his voices he put on but that was child’s play.  He was ready for next level. 

Somewhere between The Godfather Part II and Part III he had dozed off on the couch and woke at 11 pm starving and out of cigarettes. Looks like he had to make a little trip down to the local convenience store to grab some grub.... 

Trying to downplay his excitement of the possibility of seeing Eddie again, he meticulously tied his shoes and locked his door with care, holding back a little skip in his step as he made his way to the store. Richie was overconfident in his ability to procure a date with the so called “princess of Derry,” he thought there was no way in hell he could say no. He just had to muster up the damn courage to ask is all. 

Once again, as he entered the little store, no one else was in sight. Richie went to grab some of the nuggets warming under a light, carefully select a soda from the cooler, and- just then Eddie emerged from the back, just as before. However, this time Richie did not drop his drink, but clutched it hard as he attempted to barrel towards the register, knocking over a gum display on the way. Smooth. 

The clumsy teen lurched to place his items on the counter before attempting to replace the small display. He chuckled to himself, lifted up a pack of the gum and said, “Guess I just got a little stuck, huh?” with a sheepish grin. Eddie offered a deep sigh and dug his hands into the pocket of his worn jean jacket as he watched the stranger try to clear his mess for the second time. Eddie couldn’t help but smile at the (kinda cute) boy livening up his nighttime shift on a Monday. 

He finally rose up from the floor, dusted off his jeans and added “After that sticky situation...” Richie paused for a laugh that was never offered up. “... can I get a pack of green Marlboro's?” This, Eddie remembered from the night before too. He set them on the counter, rang up the items, and received the payment.  

“Thanks, Eddie.” 

“Wait, how do you know my name...?” 

Richie just winked and exited too quickly for the flustered, blushing Eddie to ask his own name in return. Eddie silently prayed that he’d see that dorky, cute stranger every day of his life or never again. 

TAG LIST: 

@dandeliontozier @sparklytoziers @richietoaster @rrichiettozier

[let-the-bands-take-c0ntrol]

High Rollers

New 5sos Series

Request: No

Rating: R; includes drugs, alcohol, sex, and violence 

A/N: I almost named this series “Get Ya Doe Up “ a song by Sk8 Maloley

     It was too cold for any one of them to be outside. Michael was bundled up from head to tow in warm clothes. Luke seeming to be immune to the frigid weather and only wearing a long sleeved flannel shirt, torn jeans and a beanie. The two were leaning up against a brick wall, cigarettes hanging from their lips as they waited on the other two boys. Neither of them had any idea idea on why Ashton called to meet up, but here they were now; freezing their asses off and waiting.

Luke had of course been the first person to show up. He was always on time like his parents raised him to be. Michael had of course been the second to arrive. He knew that if he stayed inside then he would have surely fell back to sleep. At least two of them knew the concept of time. It was quiet except for the sound of the cars going by and the gust of wind flowing through. “You know what this is about?” Luke questioned, pulling the cigarette from his lips and blowing out a puff of smoke. Michael shook his head in response. It was too late for them to be meeting and he was a person who values their sleep.

“Whatever it is they better hurry the fuck up,” Michael mumbled after some silence. His voice sounded hoarse, more gruff than anything. Just in the nick of time Ashton’s car rolled up to the curb. Ashton was wearing sunglasses and it looked as if he had been running his hands through his hair repeatedly. In the backseat of the car Calum was passed out asleep. 

“Get in!” Ashton yelled instead of greeting them. Michael and Luke shared a look of confusion. Ashton was usually a lot more polite than how he was acting now. The two boys walked towards the car and Luke claimed the front seat as Michael slid into the back next to Calum. 

“What took you so long?” Michael yawned. Ashton pointed towards Calum, who was still passed out and snoring away. Ashton pulled off and started to drive to who knows where. After about ten minutes he pulled into the parking lot of a strip club. 

“You woke us up at 2 am to see some ass?” Luke asked, glaring at Ashton like he was crazy. 

“We’re not seeing the girls. Freddy’s letting us use the basement,” Ashton replied, “Wake him up.” He turned the car off and Michael began to shake Calum violently. Calum tended to be a hard sleeper. After two shakes and Michael yelling, Calum finally woke up. 

“What the hell man!?!” Calum grumpily yelling. He pushed Michael away then glared at him with squinted eyes. Calum looked out the window then smirked, “Oh interesting place spot to choose.” Ashton rolled his eyes then took the keys out the ignition. Once they were out he exited the car and the rest of the guys followed in pursuit. Ashton had been extremely quiet on the ride over and he still seemed to be hiding something. The strip club was loud. Music blasting from the speakers and cheers of the customers, most of them being men. It smelled of cheap alcohol and perfume. Girl’s were walking about half naked, some carrying trays of food and others up stage on the pole. The four of them weaved their way through the crowd, slipping past a few girls that were heading out to the floor. 

“Hey Mikey!” one of them purred, earning a wink from their favorite customer. “Here for another private session?” she asked, wrapping her arms around his torso in a hug. 

“Mhm not today sweetheart. . .been called here to talk business,” he said. The girl pouted at his words. She was about to protest until she was interrupted. 

“Michael!” Calum shouted, grabbing the boy’s attention. Calum nodded his head in a ‘let’s go’ motion.

“Duty calls,” he smirked, kissing the girl on her cheek in goodbye. Ashton had led them to a door and standing in front of it was the owner of the club, Freddy.

“Thanks for letting us use the basement,” Ashton said, grabbing the key from Freddy. 

“Hey no problem. Just don’t break anything alright? Ya break it, ya pay it,” Freddy patted Ashton on the shoulder then left the guys to do their thing. After he left Ashton unlocked the door and hurried the guys inside. Once they went through the door, he looked around for a split second then closed the door shut behind him. The basement was stuffy and dark. Luke’s hand ran along the wall in search of a light switch. Finally his hand touched the switch and he flicked on the lights. The basement had to stretch along the whole place. A few rooms scattered around as if the place was meant for an office. 

“Alright, you dragged us all the way out here. . .what for? Spill the beans.” Luke said trying to pry the words out of Ashton. He plopped down on an old sofa that was planted near the wall. Michael and Calum sat down next to him and each one of the boys looked at Ashton in curiousness. Ashton grabbed a chair and turned it around so that he was sitting in it backwards. He licked his lips and then with much seriousness said. 

“I want to rob a bank.” 

Calum was the first to laugh, then Luke, and then Michael. All three of the boys were in a fit of giggles. It was when they noticed Ashton wasn’t laughing that they stop laughing themselves. “Are you being serious?” Calum asked, eyebrows furrowing at his friend. 

“Does it look like I’m laughing?” Ashton said. They all went quiet. Not sure what to think. “Haven’t you ever though about it?” Ashton continued on. “What have we been doing since graduation? Jack shit that’s what,” he spat, “I’m working a measly minimum wage job for only twice a week. That’s chump change.” Ashton seemed to be really pissed and though he looked calm on the outside the guys could tell her was livid. “Michael, you sell weed; that doesn’t get you much. Calum bar tends, and Luke. . .Luke, you tutor kids in fucking math! Guys let’s rob a bank,” Ashton nearly whined. They were so shocked at what he was saying that none of the guys said anything. Ashton sounded crazy. 

“I don’t just sell weed I’m an entrepreneur,” Michael corrected. 

“Entrepreneur my ass,” Luke chuckled, making everyone else laugh. Their laughter died down and Ashton looked at them with hopeful eyes. Were they actually going to consider robbing a bank? Ashton brought up some great points. They were barely making enough to pay rent. So far they’ve done nothing with their lives. 

“I’m not saying I agree to it, but what makes you think we could rob a bank? Let alone get away with it?” Calum asked. The other two nodded in agreement.

“It couldn’t be that hard. We just have to come up with a full proof plan and make sure no one gets hurt.” Ashton chewed on the bottom of his lip. “Fuck you’re right it’s a stupid idea.” He second guessed himself. 

“Maybe we should start by robbing a gas station first?” Luke suggested, “Then work our way up to the bank.” Michael and Ashton looked at Luke in surprise. They expected him to be the first to brush the idea off and knock some sense into them. “What?” It wasn’t a bad idea and Ashton’s right. Tutoring doesn’t really do anything to fill my wallet.” They each shared a look, silently questioning if they really wanted to go through with this plan. 

“I’m in,” Michael spoke up, earning a smile from Ashton. 

“Yeah sure. This is a crazy idea, but I’m in too,” Luke said. Now it was Calum’s decision. Each one of the guys starting at Calum in question. 

“We could get arrested and do some serious jail time,” Calum stated. “But there’s also the thought of making bank.” Calum was mentally wrestling with himself. He knew this was wrong, but he also felt that it would be right. “Shit. . .Fine I’m down,” he sighed, the guys cheering in response. Now that everyone was on the same page they had to set up a plan. Silence fell between them and they could hear the muffled sounds of the music playing from upstairs. 

“I’ve made a deal with Freddy, so this basement is ours for whatever it is we do,” Ashton said, “We just can’t bring cops into his place.” 

“We should have code names,” Luke suggested, “That way none of this could be traced back to us or here.” Calum nodded in agreement. They had to think this through carefully. What they were about to do was risky. The early morning being filled with plans on how they were going to go about it all. Any wrong move and they could get caught. 

[noirlevity]

Scent Chapter 5

Pairing: TadaAi

Fandom: Sk8 the Infinity

Synopsis: Ainosuke once loved Tadashi, but ever since he broke his heart, he decided to never have anything to do with him. But what happens if he meets him again after so many years and finds out a secret that will change both of their lives forever?

Chapter summary: Ainosuke finds out Tadashi has someone he goes home to.

Tags: Omegaverse, forced bonding, forced marriage, sorta angst, slow burn

A/N:   Coming up with names is hard. :|

Read: AO3 || 1 2 3 4 4.5 4.6 4.7 

Laughter and chatter fill the meeting room in a crescendo as members walked to the exit. The meeting had just adjourned so some of the members expected to have early dinner. Others were engaged in conversation with colleagues. 

As he walks with Tadashi to the exit, Ainosuke is stopped by Representative Takanagi. He signals with his eyes for Tadashi to go first. Tadashi nods. He greets Takanagi and the others and excused himself.  It is while he conversed with Takanagi that he felt someone cup his shoulder. He turns to check who it was and is greeted by Representative Yamada's wide grin. Yamada was one of his Father's close associates in their party. He is a chubby middle-aged man in his early 50s who sometimes visited their house to meet with his father. While Yamada appeared to be the approachable and down-to-earth kind, his Father was stoic and strict. Their friendship was to Ainosuke one of the mysteries of the world. 

Ainosuke bows and offers his hand for a handshake. Pleased, Yamada pats him on the shoulder as he guffaws. They continued to talk as they exited the building. 

The topics ranged from a variety of topics like Ainosuke's preparation to be formally initiated as a member of the party to the various events organized by his Aunts to boost his visibility and reputation. With the help of Tadashi, everything went smoothly. Ever since he met with the other members, he would only hear praises about his affable demeanor and magnetism that the senior party members and his cohorts rambled on. As early as it was, there was already a huge expectation on Ainosuke's shoulders. The Senior members who were his dad's acquaintances were eager and interested in knowing more about him and his advocacies for the party.

After they got out of the building, rather than go straight to their private cars, they talked for a bit. 

“If he were alive, Aichirou would be proud of how far you’ve reached Ainosuke-san. This is just the start for you.”

“Your track record in the US, joining international student groups, and your advocacy for equality and human rights is outstanding and commendable.” Representative Takanagi added to Yamada’s praise.

“You’ve worked hard.”

“Thank you very much. I’m just glad I could use my privilege as a member of the Shindo family to help others.”

Yamada shifts his eyes to another direction; a huge smile plastered on his face. Ainosuke follows his gaze and notices Tadashi standing under the bower of the cherry blossom tree.

“I see that Kikuchi-san has been appointed as your secretary. That’s good. Your Father was lucky to have him. The kid is very talented. If someone told me he was some kind of genius I would believe them!

“I remember Aichirou was very fond of him. I guess it comes as a consequence of having such a competent employee. If he were an alpha, I would have offered to let him marry my daughter.” Representative Yamada laughed heartily, body bent in a question mark. His eyes were like crescent moons on his chubby face.

Playing with his chin he continued, “He’s a handsome young man. I’m glad he’s finally recovered his youthful glow. Before, he was too skinny and unhealthily pale. I’m glad he’s doing well.

“That Aichirou was always prone to overdoing it.” The others laughed at the remark. There was an edge to his voice that made Ainosuke uncomfortable.

“Treat him well Ainosuke-san.” Representative Yamada pats  Ainosuke on the shoulder. 

Ainosuke didn’t like it when Tadashi was the topic of conversation. All he can do when this happens is to force himself to smile. As he turns to look at Tadashi once more, their eyes meet. Tadashi looked away first. As always, he doesn’t hesitate to avoid Ainosuke’s eyes if he can help it. And yet, just as often as Tadashi runs away from meeting his eyes,  Ainosuke couldn’t help but feel a twinge in his heart every time he looks at Tadashi. He pays it no mind. He massages the place where his heart was supposed to be. 

He doesn’t need to be told to treat him well. 

He continues to gaze at Tadashi. Ainosuke thinks about his talks with his Father’s colleagues. It gave him an idea about how Tadashi was doing when he was in the states. It seems that he was useful to his father and to the party. With how they saw Tadashi, it was not a surprise that his Aunts liked him. Ainosuke furrows his brows. Well, it’s not like they appreciate him for who he was. They just like him for his devotion to his work. This was what Ainosuke told himself. He didn't even know why he was trying to rationalize their interest in him as if he were jealous.

Chatter continues to fill the air. Ainosuke tries listening to the conversation but he is still distracted. With how futile it was to engage in the conversation, he allows himself to steal another glance at his secretary. 

Tadashi was looking in the distance. The sakura blossoms in the background made a perfect picture of spring. Tadashi always had a gorgeous profile with his high nose bridge and his slender nose. His raven hair fluttering in the wind made Ainosuke's heart stop. He remembers Yuki. Oddly, he’s already forgotten how he looked. His thoughts settle on Nico and how he tried so hard to search for pictures of Ainosuke’s father hoping to get a glimpse of adult Tadashi. He remembers how interested Nico was when he saw the picture with Tadashi; claiming that somehow he understood him better when he saw it. 

“He looks like your childhood friend in profile?”

“Yes.”

“Are you blind? They don’t look the same.”

When Nico told him that he was somewhat offended. 

“Maybe you just really miss him? You separated badly, didn’t you? And every time it's November 22, you just act weird all of a sudden. Ai. I hope things will be better for you. Even though it’s hard, walking away from something that hurts us is always the right choice. I was glad that you finally decided to date someone. Maybe that already made a difference.”

Too bad. Ainosuke realized that he still hasn’t taken a single step forward since the day they parted. Too bad that he is still stuck somewhere, caged by his unresolved feelings towards Tadashi. And even if it was requited, a Shindo can never marry a beta. 

Representative Yamada was right. Tadashi was handsome and competent. He deserves someone who is on his level. He deserves more than being someone’s secretary.

A faint sweet smell from Tadashi hovers in the air and makes his dejection worse. 

“Do you smell something sweet?” Ainosuke asked Representative Takanagi who was beside him. Even though he knows that he is the only one who can smell it he still wants to make sure it is still true. Representative Takanagi sniffed. 

“No. I smell nothing. Ainosuke-san, what sensitive nose you have.”

"Something sweet? Maybe your fated person is here?" Representative Yamada jokes. Everyone laughed again.

Ainosuke glances at Tadashi. He stares until he finds himself looking into the older man’s jade eyes that beckoned him. 

.

.

.

The afternoon sun peeks behind the thick clouds that hover in the sky. Orange and red rays spill across its expanse painting it with a warm gradient. The streets are bathed in sephia as day starts to fade into night. Ainosuke watches the changing scenery as he waits to be home. 

He wakes up from his reverie when Tadashi stated that they had already arrived. Since Ainosuke didn’t bring important documents with him, there was nothing to bring into the office. Tadashi doesn’t follow Ainosuke inside the mansion. He stops at the entrance and instructs the other butlers to prepare Ainosuke’s bath for him. 

Ainosuke has accepted the fact that he was going to be with Tadashi 24/7 but on that point, it seems that he was mistaken. When he arrived in Japan, it was Tadashi who prepared his bath for him.

The butlers nodded and went to prepare the bath.

Glancing at his watch, Tadashi gives  Natsuno a signal.

“Ainosuke-sama, please feel free to wait in your room. The butlers will inform you when the bath is ready. Natsuno will take care of your needs. Good night. I’ll come in the morning. I’ll wake you up like usual.”

Tadashi took out his organizer to check Ainosuke's schedule. 

“Tomorrow at 10 am we are going to meet with Mr. Honda for a meeting about a charity the party is hosting.”

Surprised at the turn of events, Ainosuke couldn’t catch what Tadashi said. His thoughts were in haywire with disappointment and frustration. It was like the feeling you get when something you have been expecting doesn’t come true. Ainosuke was at a loss what to do. His thoughts were filled with Tadashi not living in the mansion. It’s weird, particularly because as a secretary and member of the household staff, it would be easier for him to just lodge in the mansion. Without any further explanation, Tadashi bowed. He also said his goodbyes to the Senior butler and Natsuno.  Natsuno nods in response, cheeks reddening. His eyes looked like he was looking forward to something but after a realization came to him, the light in his eyes became dejected.

“Ainosuke-sama, I’ll accompany you to your room,” Natsuno said with a faint hint of disappointment in his voice. He guided Ainosuke to his room. 

Footsteps fall heavy on the floor. The mansion was quiet so it was the only sound that reverberated in the hallways. Ainosuke clears his throat as curiosity gets the better of him.

“Natsuno, Tadashi didn’t lodge here when he was working with  my Father?”

It was the first time Ainosuke talked casually with Natsuno. Somewhat surprised, Natsuno stops walking and gapes at him. After collecting himself, Natsuno smiles.

“He stayed here, but it was because the master insisted. Initially, Kikuchi-san went home every day. At that time, the master advised that he should since it would cut his travel expenses that way.”

Ainosuke swallows a lump in his throat. “Ah, I see.”

“Ever since the master passed away Kikuchi-san started going home.”

Ainosuke arrives in front of his room. Natsuno takes his suit. He excuses himself and tells him the butlers will call him if the bath is ready. Ainosuke sits on the bed, stiff like a machine. He still couldn’t put his mind into what happened. The only thing that is clear to him is he wanted to see Tadashi again. He went to the room that will allow him to see him leave. He wasn’t sure if he was still there but there was no harm in trying. 

When he took a peek at the balcony, he saw a car come in and park in front of the entrance. A tall guy with dark cropped hair got out of the car. They talked for a bit. Ainosuke is surprised to see Tadashi sit next to the driver's seat. 

As he gazed at them, Ainosuke didn’t feel anything at first. After a while, he felt a pinprick sensation where his heart was supposed to be. As he breathes the sensation becomes a stab as if tiny needles were being inserted in it. Suddenly, he felt dizzy. His throat felt unbearably dry. Before he knew it, he was already running towards the entrance with everything he got. He didn’t know why, his body just moved on its own. The maids and butler who saw him rush widened their eyes in surprise.

“Bocchan, what’s wrong?” Takahisa gasps, worried. 

“Who was that?” Ainosuke heaves.

“Oh, you mean Sato-san? I don’t know how to put it, but everyone assumes he is Kikuchi-san’s partner.”

Partner? He almost choked as he repeated the word in his head. He feels a sting at his temples and winces at the pain.

“Bocchan, are you okay?”

“I’m fine.”

After a short silence. The Senior butler offers, 

“Ever since the master passed away, about a year or so since he asked for a leave, sometimes, he would pick Kikuchi-san up.”

Ainosuke furrows his brow. Feeling somewhat defeated, he went back to his room and prepared to sleep. As he lay down to sleep, he couldn’t relax. He kept tossing and turning. Thoughts about Tadashi, about that guy he was with, and most of all the weird feeling of abandonment he felt when he looked at the two of them being close like that filled him with dread. He grabs his phone and dials Tadashi’s number. The ringing sound on the line made him feel pathetic so he hung up immediately. 

Before Ainosuke knew it, it was already morning. To him, it felt like he just took a nap. He notices the sweet smell permeating inside the room and sits up. The sound of the curtains being parted and tied was the only thing that filled his ears. Now there was a rustling sound and then finally footsteps walked towards where he was. The sweet scent is stronger than ever, even if it was neutralized by some other unknown scent. 

“Ainosuke-sama?”

When Ainosuke didn’t respond, Tadashi asked what was wrong. His voice sounded worried. His worried voice made Ainosuke feel even worse. 

“Excuse me,” Tadashi touches his forehead to check his temperature. Ainosuke feels static electricity as Tadashi's finger grazes his temples. Tadashi flinches. Relentless, Tadashi touches him again. The warmth from Tadashi’s touch, his nearness, and his smell made Ainosuke feel something. Beads of sweat clung to his forehead. Despite the bitterness that clogged his throat, he couldn't help but want to be near him, to be close to him. This is the most frustrating part. It's as if he was bound to him.

Ainosuke looks up at Tadashi. He saw that the other's face is impassive yet he could see the clear blush on the older man's cheeks. What was this? What was happening? What was this weird feeling?

“You don’t look so good, Ainosuke-sama. Shall we cancel your appointment? I’ll call Mr. Honda.”

Tadashi runs his fingers through Ainosuke’s hair gently just like how he’d always done once upon a time. Ainosuke's throat constricts at the gesture. He finds it foolish. Childish to even feel his stomach churn just from a small gesture. He isn’t sure whether this is because of anger or something entirely different, but the feeling of softness and relief in his chest betrayed his true feelings. It was a hard pill to swallow.

He bites his lip and succumbs to the desire that clouds his mind. As if in a trance, Ainosuke takes Tadashi’s hand and buries his face on the other’s wrist. He doesn't care anymore although every time he does something like this he remembers the painful words he said to him. But even then, he still could not resist. It's almost like he was hypnotized. 

A sweet familiar scent fills Ainosuke’s nose. Tadashi was sweet, so sweet to the point that he wants to take a bite off of him as if he was a fruit. He feels the older man tremble at the touch. Was this because of Tadashi’s instinctive fear of being eaten? The thought turns Ainosuke on. His heart rammed violently in his chest, so violent like it never had before. He heaves and feels his gums throb.

“You must be in a rut. I’ll get your medicine.”

Before he was able to figure out what was happening, Tadashi injected him with his suppressant. As he ingests the serum, he feels a little better. 

Ainosuke groaned as he lay down. He didn't like the feeling of ingesting his suppressant. It always made him feel weak. Opening his eyes, he watched Tadashi over languid eyelids. He expected he would inquire about his rut but he didn’t. It was weird, surely Tadashi was mistaken. How could an alpha go into a rut outside of his rut cycle without an omega around? Ainosuke covered his eyes using his arm. He remembered Representative Yamada's joke about his fated pair. Is it possible? But Tadashi is a beta. How could that be? Fated pairs are only a myth. It's not proven by science.

“You’ve been busy lately, haven’t you? You haven’t gotten any proper rest since you came back from the states. I’ll call them.” Tadashi touches Ainosuke’s arm gently to reassure him. Ainosuke gazes at his hand and tightens his lip in a line. He shakes it off. 

“No need. Tomorrow I will be free. So it’s fine.”

Ainosuke’s meeting with Mr. Honda for the charity event went smoothly. The man was taken with him. 

“You better be careful, Shindo-san. I heard alpha attacks are becoming frequent nowadays. Even for us alphas, it would be hard to break a bond so everyone is on the lookout. The strain between sexes has risen again.” Mr. Honda wiped his sweat, clearly distraught. 

“These terrorists like to target public officials. It’s a pain.”

“Yes, we’ve had reports coming in about this matter and have strengthened our security. You take care too.”

Ainosuke enters the car thinking about the alpha attacks. This was not the first of its kind. When he was in the US, sometimes he would hear news about them. Warehouses have been raided full of illegal drugs particularly used for these attacks. Japan was relatively peaceful but this was a rising problem in the country as well. 

Tadashi is cautious. He carries Ainosuke’s suppressants inside his suit all the time.

“Mr. Honda is right sir, we must be careful. No one knows when danger will strike so it's better to be prepared.”

Ainosuke is silent. He fiddles with his fingers as he debates with himself to finally ask what he's been thinking about all day. Summoning the courage to ask, he finally cleared his throat.

“Are you going home today?”

He tries his best not to reveal what he wants to say.

“Yes, I'll go home.”

Ainosuke feels his heart sink but he trods on. 

“Hmmm~ Isn’t it dangerous to be traveling back and forth? You are at risk of being attacked as well since you work for me." 

Ainosuke paused to study Tadashi's face.

“Some betas have also been affected by the attacks, right? The drug is too strong even for you. You should be cautious too.”

Tadashi remains quiet. Ainosuke tries to read his facial expressions over the front view mirror.

“Actually someone also advised the same thing to me.”

Ainosuke feels his heart throb. He knows the person who did. 

“Maybe I should stay at the mansion for a while. But I need to go home first to get my things.”

The prospect of Ainosuke going to Tadashi’s house made him excited. 

“We can stop there first before going home.” He offers. He tries so hard to hide the anticipation in his voice.

Tadashi looks over at the front view mirror with a surprised look on his face.

“Is it really okay? I can just get them later.”

“You heard me right? Don't dawdle.” Ainosuke pouts.

----

Tadashi’s apartment was surprisingly near their mansion. It was a 32 story condominium that looked as if it was just built three years ago. Ainosuke wasn’t expecting Tadashi to live in such a place. He looked like someone who preferred a humble apartment rather than an extravagant one. As they enter the vicinity, Ainosuke notices a swimming pool.

Ainosuke roams his eyes. The complex looked so much like a high-class hotel. The lobby had a marble counter at the center, on its side, there were couches where people could sit back and relax. Apart from the pool, there was a mini-park outside and a gym. Shrubs and plants were decorated all around the place. 

Tadashi didn’t say anything as they rode the elevator. They finally reached his door. Ainosuke could not help but stare. As opposed to how lavish the complex was, Tadashi’s apartment was minimal. Ainosuke notices that there were sets of shoes on the shoe rack. Tadashi notices Ainosuke staring at it. 

“I have a housemate.”

Ainosuke raises his eyebrows unconsciously. 

“He has work so he isn’t here.”

“Please come in.”

Ainsouke takes off his shoes and follows Tadashi inside. This was the first time Ainosuke ever visited Tadashi’s home. It gave him such a weird feeling. The faint sweetness he forgot earlier was now as obvious as before. Ainosuke drove unnecessary thoughts away. He sat down at the dining table and waited. Tadashi was checking out the refrigerator. He took out something and heated it in the microwave. 

"What would you like, water, coffee, or tea?"

"Tea."

The faint sound of mugs colliding and the ticking clock filled the silence. Tadashi handed Ainosuke a cup and poured him his tea.

While waiting for the food, Tadashi sat down in front of Ainosuke and drank his drink quietly. Ainosuke was stealing glances at him. If Tadashi realized this, there was no way to know. The ticking of the clock seemed eerie as the seconds dragged on. The microwave dinged. Tadashi took out the food and placed it on the placemat. He took two additional mats and placed them on the table and prepared the plates and cutlery and chopsticks.

Hesitant, Tadashi looked stiff and uncomfortable being alone together with his boss. It might be because they don't interact much outside of work so Ainosuke being here in his personal space was something he wasn't expecting or even dreamt of. But after what seemed like an eternity he finally spoke.

“I’m sorry if the dish doesn't fit your palate. But rest assured my housemate is a good cook. But it’s fine too if you don’t want to eat it.”

Ainosuke took the serving spoon and took a portion of the food. He couldn’t decline Tadashi’s offer. It’s the only personal offer he ever told him ever since he was back in Japan.

They both ate quietly. Ainosuke was bothered by a lot of thoughts. The information about Tadashi’s life outside of the mansion overwhelmed him. Why was he still so affected? It's been years since they both separated. He was convinced that there was nothing left of his feelings. There was not even hatred there. Sure there was bitterness but it wasn't enough for pain and disappointment to sprout from. But as he ate the food that was prepared by Tadashi’s special someone he feels defeated somehow. It was true, the cooking was good. The Sato guy can actually go pro with this level of skill.

“How long have you been rooming together?” Ainosuke can't help but ask. His tone is the softest he has spoken to Tadashi since being back. 

Tadashi doesn’t seem to be surprised at the question, as if he was used to the question being asked multiple times. Fiddling with the handle of his mug, it was clear that he didn't want to answer the question. Ainosuke just studied him. The silence that loomed over them wrapped its tentacles around his throat threatening to choke him to death.

“It’s been quite a while.” Tadashi finally answers. It feels as if the tentacles of silence loosened their grip on his throat a little bit. Ainosuke didn’t press the matter anymore but it still felt like his throat was still being crushed by the silence.

"My roommate made dessert. Do you want to try?" Tadashi took out the desert. Ainosuke was surprised it's petit gateau. Rather than be pleased he was somewhat offended. 

"I don't like sweets much but sometimes I crave this." Tadashi flashes a faint smile.

Ainosuke's heart softened at the sight. When he was younger he always told Tadashi how much he liked petit gateau. He couldn't help but get flustered at what Tadashi said.

"You don't need to ask him to make it for you. I can just bring you to my favorite patisserie if you crave it again." Ainosuke said as he tried the gateau. For someone who was just baking for fun, the taste was acceptable.

Tadashi took a slice and ate. 

"I probably won't crave it anymore," Tadashi whispers. Ainosuke wasn't able to catch what he said.

----

Tadashi didn’t bring much with him. When they arrived at the mansion, the one that greeted them at the entrance was Natsuno, who was usually prim and proper and quite stiff around Ainosuke. He softened when he saw Tadashi carrying bags with him. Natsuno greeted Ainosuke first, then he turned to Tadashi. 

“Ainosuke-sama is Kikuchi-san staying the night?” 

“He’s going to stay here for a while. Guide him to his room.”

“Certainly.” 

Ainosuke finds it odd that it seems Natsuno was prepared for this to happen. 

“It's a sudden request so the room must take time to prepare.”

Ainosuke notices Tadashi looking down. 

“A room is always prepared for Kikuchi-san. The senior butler makes it so…”

“Natsuno,” Tadashi interrupts him. 

Ainosuke raises his eyebrows but thought nothing of it. Accompanied by another butler, he heads to his room, leaving Natsuno and Tadashi to have their conversation. When he turns to steal a glance, he saw that Tadashi looked uncomfortable as Natusno happily talks. Ainosuke is curious why it seems Tadashi hated staying at the mansion.

Tired, Ainosuke decides to take a bath first. Like before, the butlers were the ones who prepared his bath. It seemed that Tadashi won’t be accompanying him anymore like before. 

Bathing made him ponder about some things. The botanical garden given to Tadashi’s dad, Tadashi’s obvious dislike of staying in the mansion. The room that’s always ready just in case Tadashi decides to stay. Why does it seem as if Tadashi was important in the household? Like he was a part of the family. He was just his dad’s assistant. Even his aunts treat him well. In Ainosuke’s observation, Tadashi was reserved and distanced himself from people but somehow people are drawn to him, whether they realize this or not was no consequence. He was well respected. Ainosuke soaks thinking about this. He decides to keep a close eye on Tadashi. He was curious about his life while he was studying in the United States.

When he is done bathing, he dries his hair. He saunters towards the bed to check his phone. He browsed his gallery and noticed that some of the pictures that were sent to him included Tadashi. He didn't take a lot of space but he was there. Ainosuke felt something well up in his chest. He put down his phone and sat on the bed. He really should sleep. The exhaustion and the grogginess he felt earlier when he had his rut still made him feel not unwell. He wore pajamas that were placed neatly on his bed. Then he tucked himself in. Ainosuke closed his eyes to try to sleep. After half an hour, he still could not. His thoughts drifted to the fact that Tadashi was staying in the mansion. The mansion was quite large, so he wouldn’t meet Tadashi by chance if he just nonchalantly wandered the house. Ainosuke remembered the times when they used to sleep together and felt a prickling sensation at his heart. He hates times like this when he feels powerless over his emotions. Closing his eyes a second time, Ainosuke finally fell asleep. 

[vampiremansionpoolboy-moved]

sk8 au week - day 2: royalty and soulmates

reki kyan was nearing his eighteenth birthday and he had yet to meet his soulmate. reki has heard the whispers of the people in the town about people who don’t fine their soulmates. it’s not that he didn’t have one -he did, for your information, thank you very much- but because reki was from a royal family, and therefore a prince, he was to be married off and did not have the luxury of being with his soulmate. unless his soulmate was from another royal family, but reki had seen where his red string lead: straight into the center of the town below. so no such luck for another noble as his soulmate.

reki’s mother had tried to let him build friendships and hopefully relationships with the other royal children around his age, but reki had dreams about meeting his soulmate and never developed anything more than friendship with the other royals.

reki stared at his red string, eyes tracing its path down into the village, hoping to catch a glimpse of someone. sometimes when he sleep he caught glimpses of a tall, pale, slender figure and bright blue eyes. reki wondered what those eyes would look like mere inches from his own.

suddenly a book smacked into the back of reki’s head, startling him from his daydream.

“what the fuck-“ reki’s head whipped around.

“hey there slime.” said a voice.

reki groaned at the sight of the boy sitting atop his desk.

“hello miya.” he grumbled.

“what’re you looking at?” the young prince asked, a catlike smirk breaking out on his face.

“nothing,” reki said pushing himself up and walking over to miya.

“so is your mom still making you meet that prince for dinner tonight?” miya hummed as he twirled a pen in his hands.

reki’s mother was much more kind with her son and his romantic predicament, compared to reki’s father who was ready to married his son off without a meeting between the spouses. but after his father ran away with the sevrant girl he impregnated no one stuck to his old rules.

“yes, but i have a plan to escape and i need your help.” reki said placing his hands on miya’s shoulders.

“i’m all ears,” miya said leaning forward as if reki’s mother was outside the door and eavesdropping this very moment.

“ok so i need you to mix up joe and shadow’s schedules so they’re both in the great hall at the same time. we cant have a fancy dinner set up if the cook and florist are in there at the same time now can we?”

“i like what i’m hearing.”

“and then i need you and koyomi to either distract the stable hand while sneak through the barn.”

“done. is that all you need?”

“yep. the rest is up to me. joe accidentally let it slip that his soulmate is the craftsman in town and that he sneaks out at the exit

behind the greenhouses to meet him. so thanks to joe i’ve got my escape route all planned.”

“well look at this, prince reki ditching the feast planned just for him. who would have thought?” miya asked with a laugh.

“well after how the last dinner ended it’s not that surprising.” reki said with a shudder as he remembered the glazed goat falling onto the poor princess who was just looking for a potential marriage partner.

miya let out snicker at the memory. “well now that you say that...”

“anyways i have to hurry if i wanna make it before my mom sends a servant to make sure i’m ready.”

“oh right right let’s go. i’ll go get koyomi and head to the stables. see you soon.” and with a wink miya slipped out the door and was gone. grabbing a cloak from his bed, reki fastened the clasp and dashed out the room after miya.

he was sick of all this arranged marriage bullshit, he was sick of it all. reki just wanted to meet his soulmate and fall in love. he knew his thoughts were selfish though. he was the eldest of the four kyan children and his mom was doing her best to rule a kingdom by herself, so by default his marriage was bound to be political. it was very unlikely he would end up with his soulmate.

and so that’s why reki was going to meet his soulmate tonight. he would meet them and apologize for being a lousy soulmate before heading back to the castle to meet the prince who he was supposed to be dinning with.

for most of reki’s life he soulmate had lead to a place up in the snowy mountains. but within the past few years the string moved into the town below the castle reki lived in. just like fate his soulmate moved to his home town. but it was someone else’s fate, not his. so reki made up his mind weeks ago: meet his soulmate, apologize, then finally agree to a political marriage. his plan would take away his curiously about his soulmate, it would hopefully lessen his guilt about not being able to be with said soulmate, and it would make his mom happy. so why didn’t he like what he was about to do?

ignoring the heavy feeling in his stomach reki pushed on. running quietly through the halls reki hid behind stone pillars and over large plant pots when he needed too. finally reaching the barn reki slipped into there to see miya and koyomi talking away with the stable hand over a loaf of bread and some pieces of cheese.

slipping past the trio and out into the courtyard beyond reki doesn’t make a noise. he holds his breath all the way to the green house, and doesn’t let it out until he’s well into the tunnel behind it. some time ago a tunnel was dug in the large wall protecting the castle, the entrance was hidden by vines on both sides. the cave was known only to a select few.

as reki hurried through the cave he began to think back to some of his earlier suitors. he remembers his best friend who he could have seen himself marrying despite not being soulmates. but his friend got sick and went back to his kingdom and reki never heard from him again.

but tonight was about his soulmate. so reki trudged on, squinting for the cave opening.

before long the prince was stumbling out of the vines and onto the street. luckily it was mostly empty. empty except for a tall man with long pink hair and glasses.

at the sound of someone falling through the leaves he looked up but seemed shocked to see a teenager.

“your not kojiro.” the stranger blurted.

“and your not- actually i wasn’t waiting for anyone and i have no idea who you are...or who kojiro is.”

the man stared at reki for a minute before recognition flashed in his eyes.

“prince reki! what are you doing outside of the castle?”

“i um...well you see-“ but reki was cut off by a rustling behind the vines and a large figure falling out of said vines.

“kaoru you will never believe the day i had...” joe trailed off, eyes catching sight of a panicked reki and surprised kaoru.

“joe?” reki blurted at the same time joe said “reki?”

the two stared at each other before reki made a run for it.

but joe caught him by his hood so reki didn’t get far.

“kid what the hell are you doing here?” joe said apparently forgetting all formalities one should talk to their prince with.

“not of your business! and i could ask you the same!” reki yelled as he struggled to get free from joe’s grip.

“i’m meeting my soulmate. and i’m going to ask you again, what are you doing here?”

reki sagged, giving up the struggle. “same here,”

“you’re meeting your soulmate?” kaoru asked.

“yes, what about it?” reki said crossing his arms. it had all gone so good until now.

“aren’t you supposed to be in a arranged marriage?”

“yes so i’m going to meet my soulmate and apologize before agreeing to an arranged marriage.”

“what?” joe said, surprise causing him to loosen his grip. taking the chance reki dashed away. ignoring the yells behind him reki

kept on running. nothing can stop me now, reki thought, i’ve come this far.

eyeing his string, reki ran through the street watching it get tighter and tighter. reki was too focused on the string that he didn’t see the boy in front of himself until it was too late.

the boys slammed into each other hard, the medicinal products in the other boy’s hands clattering to the ground.

“oh shit sorry-“

“sorry-“

they both spoke at the same time causing the boys to look up at each other abruptly. the boy had bright blue hair that went down past his ears. he was tall and lanky, his skin almost as pale as snow. bright blue eyes that reki had sworn he had seen before. but when reki’s gaze meet the boys hands, his heart stopped. a thin red string connecting reki’s own finger to this mystery boy’s, hung in the air. a red string of fate; a soulmate string. this boy was his soulmate.

eyes snapping back to the bright blue ones reki knew his soulmate saw it too.

“well shit.” reki blurted and the boy began to laugh. it was a sweet noise, like the chime of heavenly bells. and so reki began to laugh too.

“well i guess your my soulmate. that makes this search a lot easier then.” standing up and reaching out a hand to his soulmate, reki began to speak. “so you probably know who i am and therefore i can’t marry you -or be with you quite frankly- and i’m very sorry for that and it’s selfish of me but i have the responsibility of the kingdom on my shoulders and i can’t fail my people.”

“what? ‘kingdom’? what are you talking about?” the boys blank stare bored into reki.

“...i’m the prince. and i’m going to be king someday. and as much i want to be with my soulmate -you-, i have to be responsible for my people -which includes you-.”

realization dawned on his face. “ooh, i see.”

“and honestly i don’t care about the difference of ‘rank’ between noble and townsfolk but other royalty do.”

“well my moms a doctor if that means anything.”

“a prominent roll indeed but unfortunately not enough for the in-law of a prince. well not in my eyes, but in the eyes of others.”

the boy hummed in though. “well she was the queen of the kingdom in the mountains before my father fell to illness and some corrupt politician overthrew her and had us banished. do that mean anything?”

“you- you mean you were a prince?”

the boy nods.

“oh my god. oh my god! this may just work then! i may be able to be with my soulmate and still have a marriage that pleases the royal court!” reki’s eyes light up in happiness. “that’s only if you do want to be with me i mean.” he added.

“well you’re my soulmate, are you not? so we’re meant to be together, no?”

“well yes of course. but i wanted to make sure you were comfortable with it and all...”

“of course reki.” the boy said sweetly while reaching out and clasping reki’s hands in his own.

reki almost melted at the use of his given name spoken by his soulmate.

“oh wait can i call you that? is that ok?”

all reki could do was dumbly nod.

“my names langa by the way.”

“langa,” reki said testing out the way the name felt on his tongue. “i like it!” he smiled and watched as langa’s face turned red.

“well should we head to the castle or something to relay the news?” langa asked, turning to reki.

“hmmm i think we can wait a minute. wanna show me around the town?”

“it would be my honor.”

and so the two boys disappeared into the lively bustle of the town as the laughed away and held each other’s hand like a lifeline.

~ ~ ~

@sk8-au-week